The following eight players are playing for their Newcastle United futures.
With the window for incomings now shut – for everyone bar the unemployed – Newcastle United can focus their attentions on deals for those already at the club.
As many as eight Magpies’ contracts are set to expire next summer, including three players out on loan.
Here we assess their chances of remaining at St. James’ Park:
Contracts ending: 4
Vurnon Anita
The Dutchman has been a regular this season, albeit on the right of defence in the absence of DeAndre Yedlin and Jesus Gamez. He must keep his place if he’s to stand a chance of a renewal.
Yoan Gouffran
The Frenchman was left out of the Magpies’ opening two league fixtures, both of which ended in defeat. Since his return, though, Rafa Benitez’s side are yet to drop a single point. If Gouffran keeps it up, he could be in line for an unlikely renewal.
Lubomir Satka
A host of defensive recruits have left the young Slovakian far down the St. James’ Park pecking order. He is almost certain to depart, you would think.
Cheick Tiote
Yet to feature at all this season, the Ivorian reportedly saw a number summer moves collapse. He is unlikely to stay on next term – and could be gone long before then.
Loans expiring: 1
Christian Atsu
Newcastle have a buying option should Atsu impress, leaving the Ghanaian’s fate largely in his own hands.
Loaned out, contract also expiring: 3
Sammy Ameobi
Exiled to Bolton Wanderers for the rest of the season, the Nigerian should not expect to return to the club at which he’s played since the age of 16.
Emmanuel Riviere
Like Newcastle with Atsu, Osasuna have an option to buy the flop striker, who may as well put his house up for sale now.
Haris Vuckic
Only Tim Krul of the Magpies’ current crop made his debut for the club before Vuckic did. Off to Bradford for the season, it seems the Dutchman will be even further ahead of the chasing pack in a year’s time.
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